Dallas Wings guard Paige Bueckers (5) drives the ball past Minnesota Lynx forward Bridget Carleton, right, in the first half in a WNBA basketball game Friday, May 16, 2025, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo)
Paige Bueckers made her much-anticipated WNBA debut for the Dallas Wings in front of a roaring sellout crowd in Arlington, Texas. Scoring the season’s first points and finishing with 10 overall, the No. 1 overall draft pick marked a new chapter in her basketball journey—even if it came in a 99-84 loss to the Minnesota Lynx.
Hometown Hero Gets Star Treatment
Back in her hometown of Hopkins, Minnesota, Bueckers' debut was celebrated in full spirit. The city was temporarily renamed in her honor. Streets were dubbed “Bueckers Boulevard,” and a local brewery released a limited-edition “Paige’s 3-Point Pale” ale.
“That’s crazy,” Bueckers said with a smile before tip-off, clearly touched by the overwhelming support from home.
First Points, First Steps
Bueckers rebounded her own missed shot and scored just seconds into the game, giving Dallas a quick 2-0 lead. The crowd erupted, including NBA star Tyrese Maxey, who was in attendance.
“Should have made the first one,” she said later, reflecting on her 3-of-10 shooting night. Despite struggling from the field and missing both her three-point attempts, she grabbed a team-high seven rebounds and dished out two assists.
Collier Dominates in Lynx Win
While Bueckers found her footing, Minnesota Lynx forward Napheesa Collier put on a clinic. The four-time WNBA All-Star scored a game-high 34 points, leading her team to a commanding win. The Lynx, fresh off a WNBA Finals appearance last season, used their experience to pull away in the second half.
“She's a beast,” Bueckers said, sharing a friendly moment with her fellow UConn alum at the free-throw line. “Just a good ol’ UConn friendly chat.”
Lessons and Encouragement From the Sidelines
First-year Wings head coach Chris Koclanes praised Bueckers for handling the pressure with maturity and grace.
“She’s been fantastic,” Koclanes said. “She comes in with so much attention, but manages it like a pro already. It fits our culture.”
The Wings, undergoing a major rebuild after missing last season’s playoffs, saw flashes of what Bueckers could bring. Koclanes emphasized the team’s focus on mental strength and growth.
Championship Dreams and Rookie Goals
The night wasn’t just about stats—it was about setting the foundation. For Bueckers, it was a critical first step in her WNBA journey.
“The first one’s always the hardest,” she admitted. “Now, no more wondering what your first WNBA game will be like.”
She acknowledged the gap in experience between her and stars like Collier but is ready to keep learning. Her goal? To follow in the footsteps of Caitlin Clark and become the next WNBA Rookie of the Year.
Support From Championship Teammates
Among the 7,000 fans at the University of Texas-Arlington arena was KK Arnold, who played alongside Bueckers when UConn won the NCAA Championship in April. Their bond—and the buzz surrounding Bueckers—was impossible to ignore.
Though All-Star Arike Ogunbowale received the final player introduction, Bueckers drew the loudest cheers when her name was called second-to-last.
Building Momentum From Game One
Bueckers’ debut was filled with energy, learning moments, and bright spots. She assisted on a DiJonai Carrington three-pointer that briefly gave Dallas the lead in the third quarter. Though the Lynx eventually took control, the Wings saw glimpses of their rookie’s potential.
“It was fun. It was competitive,” Bueckers said postgame. “We’re building. We’ll clean up the things we didn’t like and keep growing.”
Future Looks Bright for Paige Bueckers
As far as first games go, Paige Bueckers’ WNBA debut checked a lot of boxes. The Dallas Wings may have lost, but they found a cornerstone to build around. With her poise, skill, and drive, Bueckers is ready to make waves in the league.
And with her hometown behind her, the journey is only just beginning
